Whiteside will not play in tonight’s preseason game against Orlando at the AmericanAirlines Arena and is expected to rejoin the team Thursday in Charlotte.

Whiteside was born in Gastonia and his family is in North Carolina.

“He’s going through some tough times but we’re there for him,” guard Goran Dragic said. “Can’t wait to see him back.”

Whiteside is averaging 17.6 points and 12.0 rebounds in four preseason games. Coach Erik Spoelstra is not concerned about the time Whiteside will miss, saying his rotation players have received enough time together in the preseason.

Miami also likely will be without Justise Winslow tonight because of a tight back. Spoelstra said Winslow is a game-time decision but the starting forward is not expected to play.

Forward Luke Babbitt, recovering from a sore groin, will not play. Spoelstra said Babbitt, who shot this morning, wants to play but the team is being cautious and giving him one more night off.

The Heat have two more preseason games following tonight, Thursday at Charlotte and Friday at home against Philadelphia.